A Tribute Shared by Toward Maximum Independence Direct Support Professional Jadian Dilg
It's hard to find the words to express the loss we feel with the recent passing of Daniel who was a Toward Maximum Independence (TMI), a nonprofit serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, client for 15 years. I had the privilege of being his Direct Support Professional at the end of his journey.
Daniel was more than a client; he was a treasure in my life and in the lives of so many others. His kindness was simply unmatched. Every time I left him, he'd remind me to drive safely, and he never failed to thank me for visiting. Getting to know Daniel, I learned about his nickname, "Dan the Man"—it fit him perfectly. He was just that cool.
I remember our first meeting so vividly. I knocked on his apartment door, but there was no answer. A few minutes later, I heard the rattle of chains, and there he was—Dan, with his Nike sneakers, silver rings, a durag under a ball cap, black sunglasses, and his signature silver neck and pant chains. His swagger filled any room he entered.
Daniel shared his dreams with me, especially his desire to mentor others struggling with addiction. He wanted to use his own experiences to encourage others on their road to recovery. He cared deeply about his community.
Family was everything to Daniel. He spoke of his mother, father, nieces, and nephews with such love. As the baby of the family, he looked up to his brothers, often proudly talking about how cool they were and how he wanted to own Harleys and hot rods like them. He was also a proud uncle—or as he'd correct me, a great-uncle! Above all, Daniel wanted his family to be safe and happy.
Even after everything he'd been through, Daniel's desire to give back was truly admirable. He called me at least five times a day, always starting with "I'm just checking in on you," "How are you doing?" or "Are you okay?" He always ended our conversations with "be safe" or "drive safe." I am so grateful for his constant check-ins and for his genuine care.
If you ever saw a white truck driving down the street with music blasting and all the windows down, you knew it was Daniel. His truck was his peace. Driving, listening to rap and oldies, that was his joy. I remember one day, I was parked outside his complex when a white blur sped past. Seconds later, my phone rang. It was Daniel, asking, "DID YOU SEE ME?" I met him at his garage, and he asked if I liked his truck. I loved it. It represented his freedom and was a source of immense pride. The smile on his face when I told him was unforgettable.
Daniel taught me so much—about pride, about enjoying life's simple pleasures, and about genuine care for others. Thank you, Daniel, for shaping me into the person I am today. You were my mentor without even realizing it, a priceless gift. You will forever be in our hearts. The world is different for having you in it.
Our deepest condolences to Daniel's family and friends. May he rest in peace.
(Thank you to Jadian for sharing with us and providing our clients with compassionate care.)
Dan was with the Toward Maximum Independence Independent Living program which assists individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live as independently as possible at home with the necessary support. Our mission and core values are the driving force behind our emphasis on helping people develop and build skills so they can do things for themselves; be independent. We also help people develop relationships with neighbors and other members of the community so they can identify and discover activities and places where they can meet people, make friends and become productive, contributing participants in the community. While it is important for all of us to learn how to pay bills, clean house, be safe in our communities, or to advocate for ourselves, it is imperative that all individuals be accepted, included and valued members of our communities.
Founded in 1981, Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to transforming the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and veterans with disabilities. TMI strives to help our clients to realize their hopes and dreams by providing Employment Solutions, Community Living Services and Family Support Services. To stay connected with us, follow us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram. Together we can share acceptance and awareness, ultimately contributing to further inclusion. Please consider making a donation to assist us with transforming lives for many more years to come. We thank you in advance! Tax ID# 33-0185759
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